"Administrator: My company's execs don't want
to use Linux now because of the SCO lawsuit. We use a lot of IBM
hardware and software, and our IT shop wants to use Linux. Are
there ways to protect my company from the fallout of the SCO suit
if we begin to use more Linux?

"Nathan: This topic can the subject of
substantial discussion and analysis and is best addressed on a
case-by-case basis.

"While risk sensitivity is certainly understandable in this
economic climate, there are reasonable means to evaluate the level
of risk posed by SCO's allegations and to pursue the Linux path
without undue risk. For example, there are several firms (including
Olliance Group, with which I am affiliated) that can review the
source code and licensing agreements in order to help organizations
understand the extent of any risk associated with open-source code
and Linux. In addition, your organization can separate itself from
this potential risk by making [an] inquiry to your software
provider regarding the sources of its code and requesting that your
software/service provider insulate you from exposure to a claim by
SCO..."